Stevenage 1-1 Shrewsbury: Match Report

01 September 2012 06:01

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Charles bails out Boro

Darius Charles' stunning solo effort preserved Stevenage's unbeaten start to their npower League One campaign, despite Boro being second best for much of the afternoon in the 1-1 draw against newly-promoted Shrewsbury.

Having netted just twice in four prior outings this season, the Shrews needed less than five minutes to open their account.

Matt Richards was the architect. His goal-bound free-kick was fumbled by home goalkeeper Chris Day, and winger Paul Parry dispatched the rebound into the roof of the net.

With 20 minutes gone, Shrewsbury had the woodwork to thank for preserving their slender advantage when Mark Roberts' acrobatic effort cannoned off the post.

That was all forgotten four minutes later as full-back Charles levelled matters, cutting in off the left flank before thumping a drive into the top corner across the sprawling Chris Weale.

As half-time neared, Day was twice called into action to keep Boro on level terms, firstly foiling Marvin Morgan with his feet before reacting smartly to repel Parry's header.

Shrewsbury might have won it with 11 minutes remaining but when Mark Wright's deep cross found Parry, the Wales international could only stab the ball on to the post.